Positron Capital Management Extends USC Satellite Partnership

Collaboration to continue on MAVERIC CubeSat mission launching in 2026

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Positron Capital Management (PCM), a technology and finance-focused family office, has announced the continuation of its strategic partnership with the University of Southern California (USC) Viterbi School of Engineering to develop and launch the MAVERIC CubeSat mission in June 2026. The MAVERIC project integrates four innovative payloads and has involved over 60 students, faculty, and industry professionals over the past two years.

Why it matters

This ongoing collaboration between PCM and USC highlights the value of academic-industry partnerships in advancing satellite technology and providing hands-on learning opportunities for the next generation of space engineers. The successful launch of MAVERIC could lead to breakthroughs in satellite capabilities and inspire further innovation in the field.

The details

The MAVERIC CubeSat mission is a pioneering project that integrates four distinct payloads designed to push the boundaries of satellite innovation. More than 60 students, faculty, and industry professionals have contributed to the design, development, and testing of MAVERIC over the past two years, making it a true collaborative achievement.

  • The MAVERIC payloads are scheduled for launch in June 2026.
  • PCM and USC have been working on the MAVERIC project for the past two years.

The players

Positron Capital Management (PCM)

A technology and finance-focused family office that is partnering with USC on the MAVERIC satellite initiative.

University of Southern California (USC) Viterbi School of Engineering

A global leader in space technology and research, collaborating with PCM on the MAVERIC CubeSat project.

Peter Wokwicz

The CEO of Positron Capital Management, who has praised the partnership with USC and the opportunities it has provided for students and faculty.

Prof David Barnhart

The Director of the USC Space Engineering Research Center, who has highlighted the challenges overcome and the valuable hands-on experience gained by USC students through the MAVERIC project.

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What they’re saying

“PCM has greatly valued working alongside USC's exceptional faculty, staff, and students. This partnership has inspired curiosity, exploration, and the practical application of satellite technology both within and beyond the university.”

— Peter Wokwicz, CEO of Positron Capital Management

“This collaboration has been instrumental in overcoming the challenges posed by these innovative payloads. It has provided USC Viterbi's Astronautical undergraduate and graduate students with the rare opportunity to design, build, and operate a fully functional satellite.”

— Prof David Barnhart, Director of the USC Space Engineering Research Center

What’s next

The MAVERIC CubeSat is scheduled for launch in June 2026, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between PCM and USC.

The takeaway

The continued collaboration between PCM and USC on the MAVERIC satellite project demonstrates the value of academic-industry partnerships in driving innovation and providing hands-on learning opportunities for the next generation of space engineers.